When a heat advisory is in effect, avoid strenuous activity, drink plenty of non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated fluids. And remember to use sun screen to protect yourself from harmful rays that can cause skin cancer.

Keep your guard up against mosquitoes. Survey your property for standing water, ideal breeding sites for mosquitoes that can carry West Nile Virus. Refresh water in bird baths regularly.

And don't go near bats. View our video on rabies prevention.

Although bathing suit season is now upon us, you can still shed a few pounds. BeFit Westchester and FitKids provides guidance to adults and kids on eating healthy and being physically active.

Read "It's My Healthcare" for valuable tips and tools to prepare for your medical visits and to take charge of your health care in general. Then, share your story with us.

It's the  law in Westchester County that licensed food service establishments are prohibited from using cooking oils that contain trans-fats. The Health Department also urges residents to eliminate trans-fats from their diet.

Other health-related matters that might interest you: 

• Take precautions against tick and mosquito bites. 
• Protect your children from lead poisoning. Childhood lead poisoning can cause serious health problems ranging from poor learning in school to irreversible brain damage.
• Check out the Health Department's A-Z listing. 
• Visit the Department of Community Mental Health online to ready about autism, post-partum depression, other  depression, and other mental health services.
• Contact the Department of Social Services about public assistance programs and adoption.

Important phone numbers:

• Health Department: (914) 813-5000
• Community Mental Health: (914) 995-5220
• Social Services: (914) 995-5000